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AmericanHeritageGirlsTroopIL3130

PolicyandGuidelinesHandbook2020-2021

CharterOrganizationSt.PeterLutheranChurch111WestOliveStreet

ArlingtonHeights,IL60004847.259.4114

www.FullLifeinChrist.org

Charmisdeceptive,andbeautyisfleeting;ButawomanwhofearstheLordistobepraised.

Proverbs31:30

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ContentsAmericanHeritageGirlsMission,Oath,Creed .................................................................................................................................... 4StatementofFaith ................................................................................................................................................................................. 4Allbiologicalgirlsofanycolor,creed,race,nationaloriginandsocioeconomicstatuswhoagreetoliveaccordingto

thestandardsoftheAHGOathandtheAHGCreedareinvitedtobeamemberofAmericanHeritageGirls. .............................. 5TroopStructure ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 5TroopBoard ............................................................................................................................................................................ 5TroopLeaders ......................................................................................................................................................................... 5TroopBoard&UnitLeaderQualifications ........................................................................................................................... 5Units ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 6Appropriategirl/Leaderratiosare: ...................................................................................................................................... 6Squads ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

ProgramEmphases ............................................................................................................................................................................... 6LifeSkillEnhancement .......................................................................................................................................................... 6GirlLeadership ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6DevelopmentTeamwork,BuildingConfidence,andOutdoorExperiences ...................................................................... 6CommunityService ................................................................................................................................................................ 7SocialDevelopment ................................................................................................................................................................ 7SpiritualDevelopment ........................................................................................................................................................... 7

MeetingProceduresandSafety ............................................................................................................................................................ 7PermissionSlips ..................................................................................................................................................................... 7ReleaseofTroopMembers .................................................................................................................................................... 7CodeofConduct ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8KnifePolicy ............................................................................................................................................................................. 8CellPhone/PicturePolicy ...................................................................................................................................................... 8InclementWeatherCancellation ........................................................................................................................................... 8GirlVisitors ............................................................................................................................................................................. 8TransportationforTroopActivities ..................................................................................................................................... 8TroopTrips ............................................................................................................................................................................. 9AdministrationofMedicationPolicy .................................................................................................................................... 9SickPolicy ............................................................................................................................................................................. 10WearingMasks.........................................................................................................................................................................................................10Covid-19 Health Addendum ................................................................................................................................................. 10 SiblingPolicy............................................................................................................................................................................................................11 Alcohol,DrugandTobaccoPolicy ....................................................................................................................................... 11

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY ........................................................................................................................................... 11TroopCommunication ........................................................................................................................................................................ 14EmergencyNumbers ............................................................................................................................................................ 14Email ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 14Website .................................................................................................................................................................................. 14SpecialEvents,Flyers,and“Turn-In” ................................................................................................................................. 14

Parent Responsibilities .......................................................................................................................................................................... 14ParentParticipationPledge ................................................................................................................................................. 14

Uniforms ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 19Pathfinder ............................................................................................................................................................................. 20Tenderheart .......................................................................................................................................................................... 20Explorer ................................................................................................................................................................................. 20Pioneer .................................................................................................................................................................................. 20Patriot .................................................................................................................................................................................... 20Leader’sUniforms/AdultRecognition ................................................................................................................................ 20

Badges,Awards,andRecognition ...................................................................................................................................................... 21Badges ................................................................................................................................................................................... 21BadgeWork ........................................................................................................................................................................... 21Handbooksignoffs ............................................................................................................................................................... 21BadgeCompletionForm ...................................................................................................................................................... 21JoiningAward ....................................................................................................................................................................... 21SportsPins ............................................................................................................................................................................ 21LevelAwards ........................................................................................................................................................................ 22BoardofReview ................................................................................................................................................................... 22

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AwardCeremonies ............................................................................................................................................................... 22PresidentialServiceAward ................................................................................................................................................. 22

Finances ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 23TroopDues ............................................................................................................................................................................ 23TroopDuesSummary .......................................................................................................................................................... 23AnnualFamilyStewardshipCampaign(AFSC) .................................................................................................................. 23ProgramSupportFee ........................................................................................................................................................... 24FundraisingPolicy ................................................................................................................................................................ 24BenevolentFunds ................................................................................................................................................................. 24

ConflictResolution .............................................................................................................................................................................. 24HelpingAHGGirlsLiveaLifeofVirtue .............................................................................................................................................. 25SuggestionPolicy ................................................................................................................................................................................. 27

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AmericanHeritageGirlsMission,Oath,CreedAHGMissionStatementBuildingwomenofintegritythroughservicetoGod,family,communityandcountry.

AHGOath“IpromisetoloveGod,

Cherishmyfamily,

Honormycountry,

AndServeinmycommunity.”

AHGCreedAsanAmericanHeritageGirl,Ipromisetobe:

Compassionate Understandingothersinfellowship,empathy,kindness,andcaring.Respectothers’

opinionsandemotions.

Helpful Willinglyserveothers.

Honest Alwaystellthetruthandkeepmypromises.

Loyal TruetoGod,family,friends,communityandcountry.

Perseverant Continuingtostrivetowardagoaldespiteobstacles.

Pure Keepmymindandbodypure.

Resourceful Wiselyusemytime,materialsandtalents.

Respectful Honormycountry,beobedienttothoseinauthority,andcourteoustoall.

Responsible Accountableformyownactions.Reliableinallsituations.

Reverent FaithfulandhonoringtoGod.Respectfultothebeliefsofothers.

StatementofFaithAmericanHeritageGirlsisaChrist-centeredleadershipandcharacterdevelopmentministry.ThefollowingStatementofFaithappliestoallAmericanHeritageGirlsCharterOrganizationsandAdultMembers."WebelievethatthereisoneTriuneGod–Father;JesusChrist,HisoneandonlySon;andtheHolySpirit–Creatoroftheuniverseandeternallyexistent.WebelievetheHolyScriptures(OldandNewTestaments)tobetheinspiredandauthoritativeWordofGod.WebelieveeachpersoniscreatedinHisimageforthepurposeofcommuningwithandworshipingGod.WebelieveintheministryoftheHolySpirit,WhoenablesustoliveGodlylives.WebelievethateachofusasanindividualiscalledtolovetheLordourGodwithallourheart,mind,soul,andstrength;andcollectivelytoloveourneighborsasourselves.WebelieveGodcallsustolivesofpurity,service,stewardship,andintegrity."Clarityisfurtherprovidedtothefollowingterms:Purity-Godcallsustolivesofholiness,beingpureofheart,mind,word,anddeed.Wearetoreservesexualactivitytothesanctityofmarriage,alifelongcommitmentbeforeGodbetweenamanandawoman.Service-Godcallsustobecomeresponsiblemembersofourcommunityandtheworldthroughselflessactsthatcontributetothewelfareofothers.Stewardship-GodcallsustouseourGod-giventime,talents,andmoneywisely.Integrity-Godcallsustolivemorallivesthatdemonstrateaninwardmotivationtodowhatisright,regardlessofthecost.

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GirlMembershipGirlmembershipisdefinedasyoungwomenfive(5)toeighteen(18)yearsofagewhoareregisteredandwhomeetallotherqualificationsprescribedinthepoliciesoftheOrganization.AmericanHeritageGirls’InclusionPolicystates:Allbiologicalgirlsofanycolor,creed,race,nationaloriginandsocioeconomicstatuswhoagreetoliveaccordingtothestandardsoftheAHGOathandtheAHGCreedareinvitedtobeamemberofAmericanHeritageGirls.• AHGunashamedlybelieves,teaches,andpracticesBiblicalprinciplesthroughoutitsprogram.

• AHGiscommittednotonlytodevelopinggirls’character,butalsototeachinggirlshowtoapplythe

truthsofGod’sWordtoeveryaspectoflife.TroopStructureTroopBoardAHGTroopIL3130hasaTroopBoardthatcreatesandimplementsallTrooppolicyandguidelines.TheTroopPolicyandGuidelineshandbookwillbesubmittedtoUnitLeadersandparentsforreviewandapprovalatthefirstparents’meetingpriortothefirsttroopmeeting.TheTroopPolicyandGuidelineswillbeupdatedonanannualbasisbytheTroopBoard.TheTroopBoardwillconsistofaminimumoffiveadultmemberpositions:CharterRepresentative,Coordinator,Vice-Coordinator,TreasurerandShepherd.OtherpositionsontheBoardmayinclude:FundraisingManager,ServiceProjectCoordinator,AdvancementManager,SpecialEventsCoordinatorandRegistrar.TheTroopBoardshouldmeetatleastonceperquarter,bi-monthlyispreferred.TheBoard'sresponsibilitywillbetocreateandimplementtheTroopPolicyandGuidelinestodevelop,createandmanageaTroopbudget,tooverseeallfundraisingeffortsoftheTroop,tohandleconflictresolutionandotheradministrativeaspectsoftheTroop.TheTroopBoardwillalsoworkalongsidethecharteringorganizationtoapproveandrecruitadultleaders.Whenconflictcannotberesolvedinawin-winsituation,thecharteringorganizationwillbeaskedtomediatetheconflictandbringittoaconclusion.TroopLeadersTheTroopLeadershipiscomprisedofUnitLeaders,AssistantUnitLeaders,andAdultMembers.TheseleaderswillimplementtheAHGprogramattheUnitLevelwhileincorporatingtheinterestsofthegirlsandencouraginggirlleadership.TheywillupholdAHG’sHealthandSafetyStandardsastoensureasafeenvironmentforeachTroopmeeting.TroopBoard&UnitLeaderQualificationsAllcandidatesforTroopBoard&LeadershipmustbeapprovedbytheCharterOrganizationandtheTroopBoard.Allcandidatesmustbe21yearsoldandbechosenthroughaselectionprocessthatincludesapersonalinterview,volunteerapplication,backgroundcheckandthreereferencesthatareverified.TroopBoardandUnitLeaderspositionsareaoneyearcommitmentandmaycontinueinthepositionwithTroopBoardandCharterOrganizationapproval.AllAdultVolunteersareexpectedtomodeltheAHGCreedatalltimes.TroopBoardMembersandUnitLeadersmayberemovedfromdutybytheTroopBoardand/ortheCharteringorganization,ifdeemednecessary.

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UnitsTheTroopwillbedividedintoageappropriateunitsaccordingtotheguidelinessetforthbyAmericanHeritageGirls.ThisTroopwilloperateallfivelevels,ifthereisinterestandleadershipinalllevels.Thoselevelsare:Pathfinder(K),Tenderheart(1-3),Explorer(4-6),Pioneer(7-8)andPatriot(9-12).Itisvitalfortheprotectionofthegirlsandleaders,that“two-deepleadership”ismaintainedatalltimes.Itisalsoimportantthegirl/leaderratiosbemaintained.Appropriategirl/Leaderratiosare: Pathfinder 6girlsper1registeredleader

Tenderheart 6girlsper1registeredleader Explorers 8girlsper1registeredleader Pioneers 10girlsper1registeredleader Patriots 12girlsper1registeredleaderSquadsLevelsmaybebrokenintosquadsaccordingtosizeandthedevelopmentstagesofthegirlmembers.ItispossiblethattheTenderheartLevelmaybesub-dividedintosquadsbasedongradelevel(i.e.1stgrade,2ndand3rdgrade.)PioneerandPatriotLevelsmayjointogetherwhilethegirlsworkontheirageappropriateprogramwork,dependingonthenumberofgirlsineachunit.ProgramEmphasesOurTroopprovidesawell-balancedprogramthatincludesactivitiesbasedonallsixpartsoftheAHGprogram. LifeSkills,Outdoors,Faith,Leadership,CitizenshipandSocialEmotionalwithChristatthecenterofall.LifeSkillEnhancementTheseexperiencesrangeintopicthroughAHG’ssixfrontiersofskill:Heritage,FamilyLiving,Arts,OutdoorSkills,PersonalWell-BeingandScienceandTechnology.Thebadgesareprogressivesothegirlswilllearnnewskillsateachlevel.GirlLeadershipGirlleadershipskillsareencouragedatalllevelsofAHG.AHGTroopIL3130willoffermanyleadershipopportunitiesthroughouttheyear.Throughmanysuccessfulexperiences,leadershipbecomesalifestyletotheAHGmembers.SomeoftheseopportunitiesmayincludeGirlLeaderorSquadLead,GirlShepard,Hostess,FlagCeremonyLead,AnnouncementsLead,Song/SkitLead,GirlServiceLead,GirlEventsLead,GirlScribe.DevelopmentTeamwork,BuildingConfidence,andOutdoorExperiencesItisourTroop’shopethatthegirlswilltakepartinexcitingoutdooropportunities.ProvidingoutdoorexperiencestoourTroopmembersisimportant.OurTroopwillsponsororprovideseveralopportunitiesannuallyforthegirls.PleaseseetheSpecialEventCalendarforspecificinformation.Fromtimetotime,theTrooporunitswillalsomakeavailableovernightactivities.ParentinvolvementisencouragedatalllevelsbutismostessentialforKindergartenand1stgradegirls.GirlmembersthatareinKindergartenor1stgrademaynotparticipateinextendedovernightcampingtrips,butmayparticipateinunit/Troopsleepoversanddayprograms.UnitLeadersmayrequestparentinvolvementforovernightactivities.

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CommunityServiceAkeycomponentoftheAHGprogram,HUGS(HeritageGirlsUnitedGivingService)istheservicearmofAHG.TroopIL3130willparticipateinatleastthreeserviceprojectsayear.Unitsmaydoadditionalprojectsifthereisinterestfromthegirls.Girlsearnservicestarsbasedonthenumberofservicehourstheylog.GirlsmayearnadditionalservicehoursoutsideoftheTroopsetting.UsetheServiceGoogleDoctologALLhoursofservice.Unusedservicehoursmaybecarriedovertothenextyear.TheAdvancementManagerwillreviewallservicehoursandhastherighttoquestionservicehoursthatdonotfitwithintheserviceguidelinesofAmericanHeritageGirls.AnydisputesonservicewillfirstbeaddressedbytheUnitLeaderandAdvancementManager.Ifnotresolved,itmaybetakentotheTroopBoardforafinaldecision.InorderforanacttobeconsideredserviceinAHG,girlsmustnotbereimbursedinanyway.Aswearecalledtoloveourneighbor,AHGdoesnotcountfamilyserviceasservicehours.Forthoseoldergirlsparticipatinginlonghourmissiontrips,pleaseconsultwithyourUnitLeaderastowhatcanbecountedonamissiontrippriortosubmittingthosehours.Onlyhours“serving”maybecounted.Preparationtimeandplanningtimemaynotbecounted.Pleaserefertopage41oftheGirlHandbookformoreinformation.SocialDevelopmentSocialactivitiesforgirlsareanintegralandimportantpartofAHG.TheTroopoffersmanyactivitiesforgirlsandtheirfamilies.TheseeventsmayhaveaseparatechargeandarenotincludedintheTroopbudget.Itisimportantthatgirlstrytoattend2-3eventsperyearinordertoearntheirLevelAwardattheendoftheirLevel.TheTroopwillprovideaCalendaratthebeginningoftheyeartohelpwithsettingyourcalendar.SpiritualDevelopmentEachgirlisencouragedthroughtheAHGprogramtogrowherfaithandrelationshipwithGod.Whetherthroughmeetingprayer,unitBiblestudies,ormodelingChrist-likebehavior,AHGVolunteerscanhaveaneternalimpactonthelivesofgirls.EachAHGTroophasaTroopShepherdwhoseekstogettoknoweachgirlandprayforeachgirl.GirlsatalllevelsareencouragedtoparticipateintheAHGReligiousAwardProgram.OurTroopalsoemphasizesthevalueoftheReligiousRecognitionProgramofferedtoProtestantgirlsthroughseveraloptionsintheFaithAwardsProgramandtotheCatholicgirlsthroughtheAHGNationalCatholicCommittee.InformationmaybeobtainedthroughyourTroopleaderorAHG.MeetingProceduresandSafetyPermissionSlipsWhengirlswillbeparticipatinginaspecialeventawayfromourregularmeetingsiteatSt.PeterLutheranChurch,apermissionformisneeded.AfieldtriporactivitythatrequirestransportationoutsideoftheTroopmeetingalsorequiresapermissionslip.Ifachildforgetsthepermissionslip,shewillnotbeabletoattend.Troopleadersarenotauthorizedtotakechildrenwithoutapermissionslip.Permissionslipsareemailedtotroopmembers.ReleaseofTroopMembersIfaparentisunabletoattendthemeetingandthechildwillberidingwithsomeoneelse,awrittennoteisexpectedtobegiventotheTroopCoordinatoratthebeginningofthemeeting.Noverbalapprovalwillbeaccepted.

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CodeofConductAllAHGgirlmembersareexpectedtoproperlyconductthemselvesatallAHGfunctions.ProperbehaviorincludesrespectforthemselvesandothersandadherencetoAHGstandardsasoutlinedintheAHGCreed.AgirlwhoisoutoflinewithherunitCodeofConductwillfirstbecounseledbyherUnitLeaderinanychangethatmusttakeplace.AsecondviolationwillresultinaninterviewwiththeTroopCoordinatorconcerninghowtheincidentdoesnotliveuptotheAHGCreed.Athirdviolationwillresultinparentalnotificationandpossibleterminationofmembershipifdeemednecessary.TheTroopBoardhastherighttoterminatemembershipiftheviolationisdeterminedtobesevere.KnifePolicyKnivescanbeanimportantandexcitingpieceofequipmentforoutdooradventures,buttheyalsobringwiththemaninherentincreasedrisk.KnivesmayonlybebroughttoanAHGactivitywhendeemedappropriatebychaperoningAHGadultLeadersandincludedonapacklistfortheAHGactivity.Foractivitieswhenknives(orotherequipment,suchascellphones,electronicdevices,etc.)arenotappropriate,theyshouldbeincludedontheactivitypacklistundera“donotbring/leaveathome”category.IfpocketkniveswillbepermittedataTroopactivity,Troopleadershipmusttraingirlsaboutsafeandappropriateuseofapocketknife.CellPhone/PicturePolicyCellulartelephones(includingbutnotlimitedtocameraphones)oranyotherrelatedelectroniccommunicationdevicesarenottobeturnedonorvisibleduringmeetingoractivitytime.PleaseconsultwithyourUnitLeaderorTroopCoordinatorforpermissiontocallouttoaparentorguardianwhenneeded.AnyphotostakenduringTroopactivitiesmaynotbepostedon-lineorpassedalonginemailswithoutthedirectconsentofallfamiliesincluded.InclementWeatherCancellationATroopmeetingmaybecancelledbytheTroopCoordinatorifthereisinclementweather.Anycancellationsoradjustmentstothescheduleduetoextenuatingcircumstancesorweatherwillbecommunicatedbyemailorphone.GirlVisitorsFromtimetotime,girlsmayliketoinviteafriendtovisitaTroopmeeting.Thefollowingproceduremustbefollowedwheninvitingaguest(s):

1. TheTroopCoordinatorandUnitLeadershouldbenotifiedatleastoneweekinadvanceofagirlvisit.

2. Pathfinderand1stand2ndgradeTenderheartparentsmustaccompanythechildandremainwiththechildduringtheTroopmeetingoractivity.

3. Ifaparentisunabletoattend,apermissionslipshouldbesubmittedwithvitalparentinformationprovided.TheTroopCoordinatorshouldbenotifiedifaparentisnotattending,explainingthelackofparentalattendance.

4. AnewgirlandherparentmayvisitonetimebeforeregisteringasaTroopmember.5. Allnon-member“visitors”attendinga“BringaFriend”ActivitysponsoredbytheTroop

mustprovideacompletedpermissionslipwithemergencycontactinformation.6. AllothervisitationsituationsmustbecommunicatedwiththeTroopCoordinatorin

advance.TransportationforTroopActivitiesAllpotentialdriversforTroopactivitiesmustcompletea“TroopTransportForm,”verifyingautoinsurance,seatbeltsanddriver’slicense.ThisformmustbeonfilewiththeTroopCoordinatorand

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theUnitLeaderinchargeoftheactivity.ParentschoosingnottocompletethisformmaynottransportgirlsotherthantheirowndaughteronaTrooprelatedactivity.Thisformmustbeupdatedannually.Appropriategirls/leaderratiosandtwo-deepleadershipshouldbepresentduringtransportation.Alldriversmustbelicensedandatleast21yearsofage.TheAHGTroopBoard/Leadershipreservestherighttodenyadriverbasedonautomobilesafetyordrivingrecord.Thedriver’smotorvehiclerecordmayberandomlychecked.Whenaunit/squadoftheTrooptravelsforanactivityoftheTroop,eachcarwillbeprovidedwithaTroopTrippacket,directions,maps,contactinformation.Vehiclestravelingmorethan75milesshouldeachhaveafirst-aidkitavailable.TroopTripsATroopTripNotificationFormmustbecompletedforallTroop/Units/Squadswhenplanningacampingtriporatripthatexceeds75milesawayfromtheCharterOrganization.AlltripsmustbeapprovedbytheCharterRepresentativeandtheTroop’sSupportServicesCoordinatorattheAHG,Inc.officeatleastfourweekspriortotheactivity.AcertifiedFirstAid/CPRadultmustbepresentatallactivitiesoftheTroop.AlongwiththisformTroopsmustalsosubmitarosterofallgirlsandadultsthatwillbeattendingthisactivity.Anyactivitythatinvolvesahigh-riskactivity(horsebackriding,rappelling,canoeing,etc.)musthaveCharterRepresentativeapprovalpriortotheactivityandaHighAdventureNotificationFormmustbecompletedandsenttotheTroop’sSupportServicesDepartmentforapprovalatleastfourweekspriortotheactivity.Girlsattendinganovernightactivitythatincludesahighadventureactivity(seehealthandsafetysectionofTroopCoordinator&UnitLeaderHandbooks)mustcompletetheHighAdventureHealthandMedicalForm,whichincludesadoctor’ssignature.Thesemustbeprovidedbeforeleavingfortheactivity.Itistheresponsibilityoftheparenttomakesurethatthisinformationisprovided.SeeyourUnitLeaderorTroopCoordinatorforthenecessaryforms.HighAdventureHealthandMedicalFormsaregoodforoneyear.AdministrationofMedicationPolicy

1. AHGmembersarediscouragedfromtakingmedicationatAHGeventsunlessabsolutelynecessary.

2. NoAHGgirlmemberisallowedtoself-medicatewhileparticipatinginanAHGevent.ExceptionsincludeinhalersandEpiPens,whichmaybekeptonagirl’spersonforemergencyuse.Parentsmustindicateinwritingthatthegirlisinpossessionofthismedicationandpossessestheknowledgeandabilitytoadminister.

3. TheAHGUnitLeaderfulfillingtheTroopHealthandSafetyLeadrolecanaccepttheresponsibilityofmedicatingormakingsureanAHGmembertakesthenecessarymedicationattheappropriatetime.TheLeadmustfirstreceiveacompletedmedicalformandRequestforMedicationAdministrationForm.

4. AHGpolicydoesnotmandatenorencouragetheUnitLeadertodispensemedication.Ifaleaderisuncomfortableadministeringmedications,effortsshouldbemadetomakeitpossibleforthegirltostillattendthefunction.Ifallideasareexhaustedwithnoresolve,inanefforttokeeptheAHGprogramavailabletoallgirls,pleasecontactyourTroopCoachtofurtherproblemsolve.

5. NoAHGgirlsmaybringoverthecountermedicationsforself-administration.OverthecountermedicationsmaybeadministeredbytheHealthandSafetyLeadonanasneedbasis.ParentsmustincludetheseoverthecountermedicationsontheRequestforMedication

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AdministrationForm.ThesearekeptinthepossessionoftheHealthandSafetyLeadforthedurationoftheevent.

6. AdministrationofallmedicationwillbedonepertheinstructionsprovidedontheRequestforMedicationAdministrationForm.

SickPolicyYourdaughtershouldbeatleast24hoursfeverfreeandheadlicefreeinordertoattendanyAHGevent.Anygirlwhohasanunknownrashwillbeunabletostayforameeting.Ifanymedicationmustbegivenduringanevent,therequestforAdministrationofMedicationmustbeprovidedtotheUnitLeaderbeforetheevent.AFirst-AidandCPRcertifiedadultwillbepresentatallactivities.TheTroophasafirst-aidkitatallmeetingsandactivities.Eachgirl’shealthandmedicalinformationwillalwaysbereadilyavailableatallmeetings.WearingMasksGirlsandleaderswillneedtowearmasks(asable)whenwearelessthan6feetapartinoutdooractivitiesorinsideasmandatedinIllinois.PleasehaveyourdaughterbringhermasktoallAHGevents.Covid-19(2020-21healthaddendum)(FollowingCDCandIDPHguidelines)Thenovelcoronavirus,COVID-19,hasbeendeclaredaworldwidepandemicbytheWorldHealthOrganization.COVID-19isextremelycontagiousandisbelievedtospreadmainlyfromperson-to-personcontact.Asaresult,federal,state,andlocalgovernmentsandfederalandstatehealthagenciesrecommendsocialdistancingandhave,inmanylocations,prohibitedthecongregationofgroupsofpeople.St.PeterandAHGhaveputinplacepreventativemeasurestoreducethespreadofCOVID-19;however,St.PeterandAHGcannotguaranteethatyouoryourchild(ren)willnotbecomeinfectedwithCOVID-19.Further,attendingSt.PeterandAHGcouldincreaseyourriskandyourchild(ren)’sriskofcontractingCOVID-19.Bysigningthisagreement,IacknowledgethecontagiousnatureofCOVID-19andvoluntarilyassumetheriskthatmychild(ren)andImaybeexposedtoorinfectedbyCOVID-19byattendingSt.PeterandAHGandthatsuchexposureorinfectionmayresultinpersonalinjury,illness,permanentdisability,anddeath.IunderstandthattheriskofbecomingexposedtoorinfectedbyCOVID-19atSt.PeterandAHGmayresultfromtheactions,omissions,ornegligenceofmyselfandothers,including,butnotlimitedto,St.PeterandAHGemployees,volunteers,andprogramparticipantsandtheirfamilies.Ivoluntarilyagreetoassumealloftheforegoingrisksandacceptsoleresponsibilityforanyinjurytomychild(ren)ormyself(including,butnotlimitedto,personalinjury,disability,anddeath),illness,damage,loss,claim,liability,orexpense,ofanykind,thatIormychild(ren)mayexperienceorincurinconnectionwithmychild(ren)’sattendanceatSt.PeterandAHGorparticipationinSt.PeterandAHGprogramming(“Claims”).Onmybehalf,andonbehalfofmychildren,Iherebyrelease,covenantnottosue,discharge,andholdharmlessSt.PeterandAHG,itsemployees,agents,andrepresentatives,ofandfromtheClaims,includingallliabilities,claims,actions,damages,costsorexpensesofanykindarisingoutoforrelatingthereto.IunderstandandagreethatthisreleaseincludesanyClaimsbasedontheactions,omissions,ornegligenceofSt.Peter,itsemployees,agents,andrepresentatives,whetheraCOVID-19infectionoccursbefore,during,orafterparticipationinanySt.PeterandAHGprogram.

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AmericanHeritageGirlTroopIL3130willaskallgirlsandleaderstoself-certifybeforeeveryin-personmeetingatSt.Peterorelsewhereduringtheupcomingyear.Wewillverifytemperaturesasneededatcheck-inaswell.Girlsandleadersshouldbesymptomfreefor14days.SiblingPolicyAHGTroopleadershiprecognizesthefactthatparentsmaysometimesneedtobringchildrenwhoarenotAHGparticipantstoTroopmeetingsandevents.Thisispermissibleprovidedthefollowingrulesarestrictlyadheredto:1.Childrenmustremainattheirparent’sside,oratthesideofanadultdesignatedbythechild’sparent,atalltimesduringthemeetingoractivity.Childrenmustneverbeunattended.2.Childrenmaynotbeunsupervisedinthehallwaysatanytime.3.SiblingsmaynotparticipateinAHGactivities,asthismaycreatelogisticalproblemsforthoseorganizingthemeetingsanditmaycausedistractions.4.Parentsaretoremovedisruptivechildren.5.Anyleadertakinganactiveroleinameetingistomakearrangementswithanotheradulttosupervisehernon-AHGchildren.Alcohol,DrugandTobaccoPolicyAstheuseofalcoholanddrugshasbeenproventobeasignificanthealthhazard,theyarenotpermittedatanyAHGfunctionoractivity.Tobaccohasalsobeenproventoposeserioushealthrisks.Sincetheadultleadersserveasexamplesforthegirlmembers,smokingisnotallowedinthepresenceofgirlsatAHGactivitiesorevents.Useofalcohol,drugs,ortobaccobyanAHGmembershouldbereportedtothegirl’sparents.Useofalcohol,drugsortobaccobyanAHGadultmemberduringanAHGeventshouldbereferredtotheCharterOrganizationRepresentativeoryourSupportServicesCoordinator.CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY Parentsareencouragedtosharetheseprocedureswiththeirdaughters.ParentsmustsignoffonreceiptofChildAbusePreventionPolicyonGirlRegistrationForm.MissionToprovideahealthyandsafeenvironmentformembersofAmericanHeritageGirls,throughaprogramofeducationandpreventionofemotional,physicalandsexualchildabuseandincompliancewithstatelawsandfederalregulations,andourguidingprinciples.IssueTheemotional,physicalandsexualabuseofchildrenbyadultsandothersisawidespreadproblem.Abusemaybeemotional,physical,and/orviolent.Incidentsmayoccurjustonceorberepeatedmanytimes.Childabuseaffectseveryone-thevictim,family/friends,allofus!Wecanpreventchildabusebygivingchildrenaccurateinformationaboutphysicalandsexualabuse,teachingchildrenhowtoprotectthemselves,encouragingchildrentocommunicateincidents,educatingadultmembersinpreventiontechniquesandreportingincidentsorsuspectedincidentstoproperauthorities.Achildabusercanbeanyone-maleorfemale,youngorold,familiarorunfamiliar,oraformervictim.Childabusecanhappeninfamiliarareas,publicplaces,inunfamiliarordesertedareas.Theabuserusuallytriestocontrolthevictimbycoercion,manipulation,orbribery.Bullyingcanbeanotherformofabuseandcanresultfromadultand/oryouthbehaviors.Bullyingcanbephysical,emotionalormental.Femalebullyingisbecomingincreasinglycommon

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andtypicallyisintheformofverbalandemotionalharassment.Cyberbullying(bullyingviainternet,email,textmessaging,etc.)isalsoincreasinglycommonandequallydestructive.AHGPolicyIfanadultmemberlearnsorsuspectsthatayouthmemberhasbeenemotionally,physicallyorsexuallyabused,wecanhelpbynotquestioningthevalidityoftheincident,helpisneedednomatterthevalidityoftheincident.Controlemotions,givesupport,getinformationabouttheincident,getmedicalassistance,andimmediatelycontacttheappropriatesocialserviceagencyandpoliceincompliancewithstateandlocallawsandregulations,parents/guardiansandthedesignatedAHGUnitLeader.Youarenotrequiredtoknowforcertainthatachildhasbeenabused.Allthatthelawrequiresisthatyouhaveareasonablesuspicionandarereportingin“goodfaith”.ItistheresponsibilityoftheAHGUnitLeadertofileanincidentreportwiththeLocal/NationalOffice.GuidelinesforYouthMembersTohelppreventchildabuse,ourmembersshouldlearnandfollowthesecommon-senserules:Bealertofother’sbehavior,don’tbelievestrangers,avoidbeingalonewithanyonewhowantstotouchachildinasexualway,anddon’tbeoverlytrusting.

• Avoiddangeroussituationsincludingplayingaloneindesertedorpublicareas,notopeningdoorsoransweringphonesathome.Discussproblemencounterswithparents,guardians,andAHGUnitLeaders.Intheeventofanincident,themembershouldnotobeytheabuserunlessphysicallythreatened,trytoturnaway,saynoifsomeonetriestoabusethem,tellabuserthey’lltellsomeone,seekhelpassoonaspossible,betoldnottofeelguilty,“itwasn’ttheirfault.”

AHGStandardsforMaintainingaHealthyandSafeEnvironmentAHGhasdevelopedaplantopreventchildabuseandimprovetheenvironmentinwhichouryoungmemberslive.Thekeyelementsinclude:

1. EstablishUnitLeaderselectionprocedurestopreventindividualswithahistoryofabusefromjoiningouradultmembershiporvolunteeringthrougheffectivescreeningofapplicants.TheAHGLeaderSelectionProcessincludesthefollowingsteps:-UnitLeadershavebeeninterviewedbytheTroopCoordinatorandCharterRepresentative.-AdultVolunteersmustsubmitacompletedadultvolunteerapplication,threecharacterreferencesandabackgroundcheck.-ReferencesshouldbecontactedandverifiedbytheTroopCoordinator.

“Beingaregisteredleaderisaprivilege,notaright.”Thequalityofourprogramandsafetyofouryouthmembersrequireselectionofleaderstobetakenseriously.

2. Educateleaders,volunteers,parents/guardians,andyoungmemberstoaidindetectionandpreventionofchildabuse.

3. Encouragegirlstoreportimproperbehaviorandtoidentifyincidentsandoffenderspromptly.

Thefollowingprocedureshavebeenestablishedtoprovideadditionalsecurityofmembersfromsituationsinwhichtheymaybevulnerabletoabuse,andtocomplywithfederal,state,andlocalstatutesandregulations.

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1.Two-deepleadership:NolessthantworegisteredadultLeadersarerequiredonalltripsandactivities.TheTroopisresponsibleforensuringsufficientleadershipisprovidedforallactivities.2.Noone-on-onecontact:One-on-onecontactbetweenadultsandyouthmembersisnotpermitted.Anymeetingordiscussiononprivatemattersorsensitiveissues,mustbeconductedinviewofotheradultsand/ormembers.3.Respectprivacy:Respecttheprivacyofyouthmembersatalltimes,excepttotheextentofhealthandsafetyconcerns.4.Separateaccommodations:Atoutdoorandovernightactivities,youthmembersarenotpermittedtosleepwithanadultotherthanparentorguardianunlessadultandyouthmembershipjoinasagroupwithtwo-deepleadership.Useofseparaterestroomsandshowerfacilitiesareencouragedorscheduledtimesarrangedforuseoffacilitiesforyouthmembersandadultmembers.Ifthisisnotpossible,two-deepleadershipmustbemaintainedinrestroomandshowerfacilities.5.Nosecretorganizations:AHGdoesnotpermitsecretorganizations.Allprogramsandactivitiesareopentoobservationbyparentsandadultmembers.Physicalhazingandinitiationsareprohibited.6.Appropriateattire:Proper,modestattireforallactivitiesisrequired.7.Constructivediscipline:DisciplineusedinAHGshouldbeconstructive,positive,andreflectourvalues.Corporalpunishmentisnotpermitted.8.Adultsupervision:AdultLeadersmustmonitorandguideleadershiptechniquesusedbyyouthleaders.ToenhancethehealthandsafetyofallmembersofAHG,thefollowingsafetystandardsaretobefollowed:

• ControlledSubstances:PersonsundertheinfluenceofcontrolledsubstancesoralcoholorinpossessionofsameareprohibitedfromparticipationinanyAHGactivityorprogram.

• Fireworks:PersonsareprohibitedfromusingorpossessingfireworksatanyAHGactivityorprogram.

• Firearms:Personsusingorpossessingfirearmsmustcomplywithalllocal,stateandfederallawsduringallAHGactivities.

• Smoking:TheuseoftobaccoproductswheremembersarepresentisnotpermittedatAHGprogramsoractivities.

ProceduresIntheEventofSuspectedAbuseIntheeventanactofchildabuseiswitnessed,reported,orsuspectedthefollowingproceduresaretobefollowed:

1. Removeyouthmemberfromimmediatedangerandprovidemedicalattentionifneeded.2. Intheeventchildabuseiswitnessed,promptlyremoveandreportoffenderstothe

localsocialservicesdepartmentand/orpoliceimmediatelyinaccordancewithstate,local,andfederallawsandregulations.(Refertoyourcountywebsiteforreportingabuseinyourarea.)

3. IfthesuspectedabuserisNOTtheparent/guardian,notificationshouldbemadetoParents/GuardiansanddesignatedAHGofficialsassoonaspossibleadvisingthemofsituationandactiontaken.

4. Leaders,havingreasontobelieveayouthmember(s)hassufferedabuse,shouldreportorcausereportstobemadetothelocalsocialservicesdepartmentandpoliceassoonaspossible.Thereportshouldinclude:nameandaddressofyouthmember(s),age,parent’s/guardian’sname,natureandextentofabuse,andanyotherinformationwhichwouldbehelpfulininvestigatingthesituation.Uponnoticetothe

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socialservicesandpolice,immediatenotificationshouldbemadetoAHGofficialsadvisingthemofthesituationandactiontaken.

Adherencetothesepoliciesandproceduresnotonlyenhancestheprotectionofourmembers,butalsoensuresthebasicvaluesofAmericanHeritageGirlswhileprovidingahealthyandsafeenvironment.TroopCommunicationEmergencyNumbersIfyouhaveanemergencyandneedtocontactyourdaughterduringameeting,calltheTroopCoordinator,TinaWilsonat847-997-4502.EmailThisisourPRIMARYformofcommunication.Troopemailswilltypicallybesentoutseveraldayspriortoameeting.YoumayreceiveupdatesfromyourCoordinator,ViceCoordinator,oranotherAHGLeader.TheTroopwillsendregularemailsofupcomingevents,activities,andreportsoneventsthathaveoccurred.Pleaserespecttheprivacyofourmembers.AllmembercontactinformationshouldbeusedexpresslyforAHGpurposes(nosolicitationsorspamemail).Websitehttps://troop-il3130.trooptrack.comistheprimarywebsiteourtroopuses.SpecialEvents,Flyers,and“Turn-In”BesuretochecktheCommunicationsTableuponsigninandsignoutforanytime-sensitiveAHGinformation.Notificationofactivityfees,payments,andpermissionslipswillbeavailableandturnedinattheCommunicationTable.YouwillalsoneedtoturninyourCovid-19self-certifyformatcheck-inaswell.(2020-2021)SpecialeventflyerswillbeemailedorhandedoutatTroopmeetings.Mostspecialeventshavedeadlines.Paymentandareservationformwillbedueonaparticularduedate.Formsandpaymentsmaynotbehandedtoaleader,butmustbeplacedinappropriatelabeledenvelopesatTroopmeetings.Parent Responsibilities Thegirlsshouldbeatthemeetingsandeventsintherequireduniform;theyshouldarrivebeforethestartingtimeandafteravisittothebathroom.Parentsarealsorequiredtoobtaininformationatcheck-inforupcomingevents,monitore-mailsandmakesurethegirlsremembertobringtheirAHGHandbooksorothernecessaryinformationtoeachmeeting.ParentParticipationPledgeProvidingaqualityProgramforgirlmembersrequiresacommitmentfromallfamiliesinvolved.EachfamilymustagreetoactivelyparticipateintheTrooptoensurethesuccessofthegroupasawhole.Duetovariouscircumstances,somefamiliesmayneedtocompletetheirserviceoutsideofregularmeetingtimes;somefamiliescanbettercompletetheirserviceduringmeetings,whileotherswilldoablendofboth.Itisanimportantprioritytofillpositionvacanciesanddelegateworkappropriatelytoinsureafulfillingexperienceforall.

VolunteerPositionSelectionBasedonGifts

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AmericanHeritageGirlsisafamily-supportedProgramthatencouragesbothgirlandadultinvolvement.OurTroopwillbenefitmostwhenwecanutilizegiftsfromallourmembers.We,theBoardMembersofAHGTroopIL3130,recognizethateachofyouhasbeengivendifferentgiftsbyGodandiscalledtousethesegiftsforHisglory.Althoughwehavebeenveryblessedwithmanywonderfulvolunteerswhohavegiventheirtimeandtalent,weareinneedofmore.OurTroopcannotexistwithoutthosewhogivethemselvesforothers.Volunteeringforapositionshouldbedonewithdiscernment.Prayerandones’circumstanceinlifeshouldbeweighedwhenconsideringapositionwithintheTroop.PleasedonotthinkthatifyouareunabletovolunteerthatyourdaughterwillnotbeabletoparticipatewithourTroop,butwedoaskthatyouprayforguidanceinhelpingourTroopinanywaypossible.ThefollowingSpiritualGiftlistmayhelpyoudeterminewhatpositionyoumaybecalledtovolunteerfor:Title Position Description Kingdom Goal Kingdom Result

Administrative Roles: establishing integrity in the ministry by demonstrating an inward motivation to do what is right regardless the cost Troop Coordinator Supervises the running

of the chartered AHG Troop by providing leadership, administration and support to the Unit & Asst. Unit Leaders and by being the Troop’s liaison with AHG, Inc. and the charter organization. May have the gifts of Teaching, Shepherding and Administration.

To create unity within the Troop and lead families to deeper relationships with God

Bringing G

irls and Volunteers closer to G

od in their spiritual walk, taking a stand for biblical

principles, and making their responsibility for the body of believers know

n.

Vice Coordinator Assists in supervising the running of the chartered AHG Troop by providing leadership, administration and support to the Unit & Asst. Unit Leaders. Duties should be divided with Troop Coordinator as spiritual gifts and personalities dictate. May have the gifts of Teaching, Shepherding, Helping or Administration.

To create unity within the Troop and lead families to deeper relationships with God

Unit & Asst. Unit Leaders

Works directly with girl members in implementing the AHG program based on their interest while inspiring and facilitating them to achieve all six Program Emphases. May have the gifts of Teaching and

To inspire Girls to grow in their relationship with Christ through modeling biblical character; direct responsibility to girls and families as a voice of the Troops vision and witness to the Great Commission

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Leadership.

Registrar Responsible for all registration paperwork, fees and final submission to AHG, Inc. May have the gift of Helping.

To be an example to families as to how to integrate integrity into the financial and organizational workings of the Troop

Advancement Manager

Responsible for maintaining each girl’s advancement achievements, as well as working with the Unit Leaders to keep girls informed of badge &/or level status, noting requirements to be met for completion. Usually serves as Board of Review Chair. May have the gift of Administration.

To promote Girls achievements, skills, and gifts in light of their growth in Christ

Training Coordinator Responsible for training other adult volunteers to become trainers within the Troop to ensure that the mission and ministry of AHG are applied in a consistent and positive manner. May have the gift of Teaching.

To take a holistic approach to insure each Girl and Volunteer in the Troop is growing in knowledge and biblical truth

Uniform Manager Responsible for ordering uniforms, badges, service stars and other insignia. Works with Advancement Manager to determine specific badges that will be earned throughout the year. May have the gift of Administration.

To bring unity to the Girls showing God's love is equal for all and also make the Girls aware of their individual uniqueness

Secretary Responsible for taking minutes at Troop Board meetings, creating and maintaining a Troop roster and phone tree; responsible for creating monthly/quarterly communication of Troop’s activities with families. May have the gift of Administration or Helping.

To keep the Troop on task with the goals and vision of the Troop in order to see Kingdom results

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Historian Responsible for taking pictures of Troop activities and events throughout the year; responsible for creating a yearly scrapbook or photo album, as well as, collecting articles of Troop activities that were published, Troop newsletters, or other news-worthy events. May have the gift of Helping.

To inspire the Troop by reminding them how God has worked through the service of the Troop to make a difference for Christ

Hospitality Roles: Serving the Members of the Troop by contributing to the welfare of others in order to show God's love and the value of each individual involved in the Troop Charter Rep Responsible for being

the primary liaison between the Troop and Charter organization. This position communicates the value of the AHG Troop to the overall ministry of the church/school and will be able to assist the Troop when his/her help is needed. May have the gift of helping and administration.

To act as the relationship builder focusing on unity and spiritual growth by providing an open connection between the Troop and Charter Organization

Bringing G

irls and Volunteers closer to G

od in their spiritual walk, taking a stand for biblical

principles, and making their responsibility for the body of believers know

n.

Troop Shepherd Responsible for the “care and feeding” of the Troop’s members, encouraging each one in their spiritual walk. Gathers understanding of girl absences and is Troop Prayer Warrior; develops a prayer team. May have the gifts of Shepherding and Evangelism.

To draw upon each girl and Volunteer's spiritual gifts and show them how to better apply their gifts and talents within biblical principles

Recruitment Coordinator

Responsible for developing and implementing a year-round recruitment plan, organizing information session, and providing other recruitment opportunities throughout the year. May have the gift of hospitality, administration and helping.

To facilitate Volunteers’' growth in Christ as they use their gifts to see the Troop accomplish the God-given vision of the Troop

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Events Coordinator Responsible for coordinating the Troop’s activities, service projects, ceremonies and/or summer programs. May have the gift of hospitality and administration.

To host events that support faith, service, and fun through unity and advancement of the ministry

Financial Roles: To instill good stewardship practices of wisely using time, talent and money within the Troop in order to biblically model for families the way to wisely uses resources we are given. Troop Treasurer Responsible for the

financial standing of the AHG Troop. Also, responsible for Troop’s financial records, budget, checkbook and expenses. May have the gift of giving and administration.

To serve the Troop wisely by tracking resources available and using them to further the ministry outreach for Christ

Bringing G

irls and Volunteers closer to G

od in their spiritual w

alk, taking a stand for biblical principles, and making their

responsibility for the body of believers known.

Fundraising Manager

Helps to establish fundraising goals, research & select appropriate products and companies as well as implement sale. May have the gift of giving and administration.

To make the best use of God's resources and helping families to be able to grow stronger spiritually through participating in the Troop

ASC (Annual Stewardship Campaign) Coordinator

Responsible for overseeing the Annual Stewardship Campaign. May have the gift of administration and giving.

To encourage Troop goal- setting and family involvement by adhering to the bigger picture of God's Kingdom

AHG Troop IL3130 thanks you for helping enhance the lives of these young girls through your participation.

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UniformsThe AHG Official Girl & Adult Uniforms consist of the following items:

It is our desire that requiring a girl to wear a uniform should in no way hinder her from joining the organization. If obtaining an AHG Official Uniform for your daughter is difficult, please speak with the Uniform Manager or Troop Coordinator about your need. For any concerns regarding uniforms please see the AHG Uniform FAQ.

Pathfinder

AHG Pathfinder T-shirt

AHG Necklace Kit

Navy skirt, skort, pants*, capris or

modest shorts

Tenderheart

AHG Red Vest

Blue Neckerchief

AHG Polo Shirt, white

Navy skirt, skort, pants*, capris

or modest shorts

Explorer

AHG Blue Vest

Red Neckerchief

AHG Polo Shirt, white

Navy or Khaki skirt, skort,

pants*, capris or modest shorts

Pioneer

AHG Blue Sash

AHG Polo Shirt, White

Khaki or Navy pants*,

capris, skirt or modest

shorts

Patriot

AHG Blue Sash

AHG Polo Shirt, Red

Khaki or Navy pants*, capris,

skirt or modest shorts

Registered Adult Member

AHG Polo Shirt, Blue or Red

Khaki, black or navy pants, skirt,

capris or modest shorts

AHG Registered Adult Member polo

Lanyard

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TheAHGuniform(ClassA)istobeworntoallmeetingsandceremonies.Itcanbeworntoserviceprojects,fundraisingactivitiesandTroopactivitiesthatdonotrequiremorecasualdress.ClassBuniform(redt-shirt)maybeworntoZoommeetingsandmorecasualeventsandsomeserviceopportunities.WhilethegirlsareinuniformtheyaretobeveryconsciousofthefactthattheyarerepresentingAHGandthecharterorganizationandmakinglastingimpressionsonthosearoundthem.SpiritwearcanbepurchasedthroughtheAHGonlinestoreathttps://www.americanheritagegirls.org/store Spiritwearisworn,whenappropriate,toAHGevents.However,weencourageourgirlstoshowofftheirTroopandspiritwearatanytimeoutsideofuniformedevents.Closed-toeshoesarerequiredforallAHGmeetingsandevents(absolutelyNOflipflops).Pathfindersmaywearawhitelong-sleevedmockturtleneckundertheiruniformt-shirt.T-shirtsmaynotbewornunderthevestorsash.Theneckerchiefmustbetiedwithasquareknotatthefirstbuttonofthepolo.ALLCLOTHINGMUSTBEMODEST(e.g.,shorts,skorts,orskirtsshouldbenoshorterthanthreeinchesabovetheknee).Polos,skirts,skortsandslacksneednotbepurchasedthroughAHG,butmustadheretotheorganization’suniformstandards.Forplacementofthebadgesandinsigniapleaserefertopages26and27intheoldAmericanHeritagegirlhandbookorpages16and17inthenewTenderheartandExplorerhandbookorpages22and23inthenewPioneerandPatriotHandbook.PathfinderAHGPathfinderT-shirt,necklacekit,navyskirt,skortorslacks*TenderheartAHGredvest,blueneckerchief,whitepoloorlong-sleevedmockturtleneck,navyskirt,skort,orslacks*ExplorerAHGbluevest,redneckerchief,whitepoloorlong-sleevedmockturtleneck,khakiornavyskirt,skort,orslacks*PioneerAHGbluesash,whitepoloshirtorwhitelong-sleevedmockturtleneck,khakiornavyskirtorslacks*PatriotAHGbluesash,redpoloshirtorredlong-sleevedmockturtleneck,khakiornavyskirtorslacks*Patriotsmaychoosetohavea2ndsashforthePatriotlevel.*DressslackswithnopocketsonlegsLeader’sUniforms/AdultRecognitionPathfinderLeaderswearthePathfinder“official”LeaderT-shirtandNavyBlueorKhakibottoms.TenderheartthroughPatriotLeadersweartheAHG“official”RedorNavyPoloShirt.NewUnitLeaderswillreceivetheAHGMembershipPinattheFallJoiningAwardceremony.TheAHGmembershippinistobewornontherightlapel.UnitLeadersalsomayearntheGemofaLeaderPin(atthe2,4,6,or8yearsofservice)andtheReligiousAwardMentorPin,whichmaybeplacedontheAHGofficialpoloaswell.

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Badges,Awards,andRecognitionBadgesTheTroopbudgetsforthreebadgespergirltobeimplementedduringTroopmeetings.UnitLeadershelpthegirlsplantheiractivitiestorevolvearoundtheirbadgerequirements.IfgirlsareabsentfromaTroopmeetingwherebadgerequirementsarebeingmet,itisuptothegirlmemberand/orparenttomakesureshefulfillsthoserequirementsonherowntimeifshewantstoreceivethebadgealongherwithgirlsinherunit. BadgeWorkGirlsmayearnbadgesoutsideoftheTroopsetting.Summermonthsareagreatopportunityforgirlstoearnbadgesintheoutdoorskillfrontieraswellastheotherfrontiers.TheindividualmustpayforallbadgesearnedoutsideoftheTroopmeeting($3.25each).TheTroopBoardmaywaivethisfeeduetosuccessfulfundraisingefforts.BadgerequirementsearnedoutsideofTroopmeetingsmustbeapprovedbyanAHGLeaderandrecordedbytheAdvancementManager.AHGLeadershavetherighttoquestionanybadgerequirementsfulfilledoutsideoftheTroopmeeting.Girlswillberequiredtodemonstrateacquiredknowledge/masteryofthecompletedbadgerequirements.Ifrequiredbythebadge,girlsshouldbringadisplayormakeashortpresentationtothelargegrouportheirunitatascheduledtime.PleasesetupthistimewithyourUnitLeader.Ifthereisadisputeregardingrequirements,itwillbebroughttotheattentionoftheTroopBoardforrectification.IndividualsmaynotpurchasebadgesorinsigniathoughtheAHGStore.HandbooksignoffsAHGLeaderswillsignoffonrequirementsineachgirl’sAHGGirlHandbookforanybadgesearned.RequestforbadgesearnedmustbesubmittedonemonthpriortothenextCourtofAwards.Sign-offsforthebadgesmustbecompletedpriortoorderingabadge.BadgesearnedororderedafterthisdatewillbeorderedforthenextCourtofAwards.BadgesearnedoverthesummerwillbesignedoffbyAHGleadersandorderedforthefallCourtofAwards.Leadersmaynotsignofftheirowndaughter’sbadgework.BadgeCompletionFormAtthetimeofbadgesign-off,havea“BadgeCompletionForm”readyfortheleadertosignorcompletedtheBadgeCompletionformonline.ThissignedformmustbeturnedintoourAdvancementManager,viathe“BadgeCompletionFormEnvelope”locatedattheCommunicationTable.Itisbesttoturninabadgecompletionformasbadgesarecompleted.JoiningAwardAllnewmembersmustearntheJoiningAward.ThisisthefirstawardanAmericanHeritageGirlearns,despiteherage(exceptforaPathfinder,whosefirstawardistheFannyCrosby).TheJoiningAwardcanbeearnedwithinaTroop/Unitorindependently.Ifagirljoins,andthemajorityofherTroophasalreadyearnedtheirJoiningAward,ourJoiningAwardLeader,alongwiththeparent,canassistthegirlinlearningtherequirementswithinthefirstquarterofhermembership.NewmemberswillneedtocompletetheJoiningAwardsectionintheGirlHandbookandhavetheJoiningAwardLeadersignoffontherequirementsbeforetheJoiningAwardmaybepresented.Allgirlsmustweartheir“official”uniformtoreceivetheJoiningAward.GirlswillberecognizedandreceivetheirawardataCourtofAwards.Thepurchasepriceofthisawardiscoveredbytroopdues.SportsPinsWehopethatthisprogramwillencouragelifelonghealththroughexercise.ThisprogramisdesignedtointroduceAHGmemberstobothgroupandindividualsportsandtoencourageteamwork,respectforauthority,goalsettingandgoodsportsmanship.Girlsmayworktogetheron

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thesepinsormayparticipateindividuallythroughcommunityandchurchteamsorclubs.ParentscanfindSportsPinRequirementsonpages341-356oftheoldAHGGirlHandbook;274-302inthenewTenderheartandExplorerhandbookand282-310inthenewPioneerandPatriotHandbook.SportsPinsmustbefilledoutonaBadgeCompletionForm.LevelAwardsLevelAwardsareavailableatalllevelsofAHG.Itishighlyrecommendedthateachgirlearnherlevelaward,howeverlevelawardsarenotrequiredinordertocontinueintheAHGprogram.ThestepstowardstheLevelAwardincludebadgework,leadershipopportunities,specialeventparticipationandcommunityservicehours.ThisawardisearnedattheendofeachLevel(i.e.Pathfinder,Tenderheart3rdgrade,Explorer6thgrade,Pioneer8thgradeandPatriot10thgrade).BecauseearningLevelAwardsusuallytakesworkoveracoupleofyear,girlsjoiningAHGinthe3rdor6thgrademaychoosetoearntheirlevelaward,howeverparentinvolvementoutsideofregularTroopMeetingsmaybeneededtocompletenecessarywork.Girls(allexpectFannyCrosby)receivingtheirLevelAwardwillneedtoparticipateinaBoardofReview.OncethegirlhasparticipatedinherBoardofReviewandshehasbeenapprovedtoreceiveherLevelAward,shewillreceivethisrecognitionattheEndofYearCourtofAwards.TheLevelAwardTrackingSheetscanbefoundintheoldGirlHandbookonpages64-67oronpages303-318inthenewTenderheartandExplorerhandbookandpages311-320inthenewPioneerandPatriotHandbook.BoardofReviewEachgirlmembercompletingherLevelAward(exceptforFannyCrosby)mustparticipateinaBoardofReview,attheendoftheirlevelyear,priortoaCourtofAwardCeremony.ThepurposeofaBoardofReviewistomakesuretheAmericanHeritageGirlhascompletedallofherrequirementsforherlevelaward.TheBoardofReviewprovidesthegirlswiththeopportunitytodevelopandpracticeskillsneededinaninterviewsituationandisanopportunityforthegirltoreviewheraccomplishments.UnitLeaderswillassistgirlswithpreparingfortheirBOR.TheBoardofReviewwillbeofferedduringaregularTroopmeetingandgirlswillbenotifiedpriortothemeetingoftheirrequiredattendance.Girlsmustbedressedinfulluniform(includingneckerchief)withbadgesandinsignia,completeforinspection.GirlsshouldweartheofficialAHGuniformappropriatetotheirlevel.Noshortshortsareallowed.AwardCeremonies TheTroopplansAwardCeremoniessogirlsmayreceivetheirbadges,joiningawards,levelawards,servicerecognitionandreligiousrecognitions.Youwillreceiveacalendarinthefallforalloftheseimportantdates.MostceremoniestypicallyoccurinDecember(JoiningAward),andtheendofMay.Theseawardceremoniesareopentoparents,familyandrelativestoattend.Itisimportanttothegirlsthattheyhaveatleastoneparentinattendancefortheseawardceremonies.Ifagirlisunabletoattendtheceremony,herrecognitionwillbegiventoherduringanopeningceremonyatthenextavailableTroopmeeting.Whenschedulingyourfamilycalendar,pleasemaketheseceremoniesapriority.PresidentialServiceAwardThePresidentialServiceAwardwasputinplacetohonorAmericansthatusetheirtime,energy,talents,andcompassionforotherstomakeadifferenceintheworldthroughvolunteering.Toearnanaward,individuals,familiesandgroupsmustkeeparecordofvolunteeractivitiesandhoursserved.ThisRecordofServicemaybekeptasadiary,orcalendarorinyourServiceHourTallySheet.IndividualsmustsubmittheirrecordsalongwiththePresidentialVolunteerServiceAwardOrderFormto“certifyingorganizations”thatwillreviewandverifytheirrecordsandorderand

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distributetheaward.Toberecognized,serviceactivitiesshouldmeetnationalorcommunityneedsintheareasofyouthachievement,parksandopenspaces,healthycommunities,andpublicsafetyandemergencyresponse.http://www.presidentialserviceawards.gov/

FinancesThefollowingisabreakdownofinitialandannualcosts.Pleasenote,thesecostsaresubjecttochangeannually. GirlNationalRegistration $26.00(annual)AHGMembershipRegistration;$60“sistercap”

$26($60perfamily)willbecoveredbysuccessfulfundraisingthisyear.

TroopDues $65.00(annual)–HelpscoverTroopbudget(seedetailsbelow)

Earlyregistrationdiscountof$10isavailable.Nonrefundable

ProgramSupportFee $20pergirl,paidtoAHGNationalmid-year;$60“sistercap” Thisisincludedandcollectedininitialregistrationfees.

Nonrefundable FundraisingObligation SeeFundraisingpolicyandguidelinesbelow.Allgirlsare expectedtoparticipateinTroopfundraisingactivities.AdultMemberRegistration $26.00(annual)–AnnualmembershipregistrationwithAHG

Inc.Costwillbecoveredbysuccessfultroopfundraisingwithboardapproval.

GirlHandbook $10.99PathfinderHandbook;$19.99TenderheartandExplorer

Handbook;$19.99PioneerandPatriotHandbookSpecialEvents(optional) Additionalchargesvary.Registrationandpermissionformsare

distributedthroughTroopemail.TroopDuesTheTroopBoardannuallydeterminestheamountof“dues”tobeassessedeachgirlmembertooperateaTroopbudget.Thisbudgetincludesbadges,unitsupplies,campingsupplies,refreshmentsforceremonies,craftsandschoolsupplies,girlandleaderrecognitions,generalofficesupplies,andcharterfee.ATroopbudgetisgivenannuallytoparentsatthebeginningoftheprogramyearforapproval.TheTroop’ssourceofincomeisfromduesandfundraisingbyallitsmembers.IfyoushouldhaveanyquestionsregardingtheTroopbudget,pleasecontacttheTroopCoordinatororTreasurer.TroopDuesSummaryIfyoualreadyhaveyouruniformandhandbook,thetotalcostwillbe$65,plusanyadditionaloptionalspecialevents.AnnualFamilyStewardshipCampaign(AFSC)TheAnnualfamilyStewardshipCampaignisanannualfamilydonationdrive.Eachregisteredfamilyreceivesinformationaboutthisstewardshipcampaignandhowtoparticipate.EachTroopisasked

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topromoteandencourageTroopfamilyparticipation,asthiscampaigniscrucialtothehealthandgrowthoftheAmericanHeritageGirls.ProgramSupportFeeAmericanHeritageGirlsspendsfarmorethan$26pergirlannuallytoprovidetheAHGprogram.TheremainingcosttoprovidetheprogramcomesfromtheassessmentoftheProgramSupportFeewhichis$20perregisteredgirlpaidtoAHG,Inc.annuallybytheTroop.TroopIL3130raisesthismoneythroughfundraising.FundraisingPolicyFundraisingisanecessaryactivityonbehalfoftheTroop.FundsearnedsupporttheTroopbudget,(patches,badges,badgework,activitysubsidies)providefortheAHGprogramsupportobligationandenablesgirlsandtheirfamiliestolessentheoutofpocketcostsoftheprogram.Therefore,eachAmericanHeritageGirlisexpectedtoparticipateinthiseffortforthevitalityoftheTroopandherexperienceinAHG.TheTroopmayfundraiseasawholeforaparticularprojectortrip,and/orunitsmaydosoaswell.AHG’sfundraisingguidelinesallowforaTrooptoconductuptothreefundraisersperyear.ItisthegoaloftheTroopBoardtokeepfundraisingtoaminimum.AllfamilieswillbenotifiedofthefinancialstandingoftheTroop.SpringPlantandFlowerSale!Weexpecteachgirltosell$250.00worthofproductorBuyOut$90(ourprofit).Inadditiontosellingplantsonyourown,therearealsotwoopportunitiesforyoutoparticipateinflowersaleflyerdistributionandearncredit:St.PeterChurchServicesandSt.PeterStreetCampaign.Ifyoudonotselltheminimumof$250.00,youwillbeaskedtopaythebalance(basedonthe$90buyout).Thetroopwillholdallbadges/patchesuntilbuyoutispaid.Werealizewhilesistersoftensharethesellingtargetmarket,theydonotsharebadges,patches,subsidies,andfees.Sistersshouldtakeadvantageoftheflyerdistributionopportunitiesforcredit.BenevolentFundsBenevolentfundsareavailablefortroopactivities!Financialgiftsneverexceed50%ofactivitycost.Pleasesubmityourrequestinwriting(email)totheTroopCoordinatorforTroopBoardapproval.ATroopmembermustparticipateinthefundraisertoseekmoneyforaspecialeventactivity.ConflictResolutionStepstoConflictResolution1. SeekBiblicalguidance-humbleyourself-TheBibleaddressesconflictconsistently.Some

versesthatyoumayreflectuponinclude:Galatians6:1Brethrenevenifamaniscaughtinanytrespass,youwhoarespiritual,restoresuchaoneinaspiritofgentleness,eachonelookingtoyourself,lestyoutoobetempted.Colossians3:12Andso,asthosewhohavebeenchosenofGod,holyandbeloved,putonheartofcompassion,kindness,humility,gentlenessandpatiencebearingwithoneanotherandforgivingeachother,whoeverhasacomplaintagainstanyone,justastheLordforgaveyou,soalsoshouldyou.

2. Understandtheuniquenessofeachvolunteer-Identifypersonalitytraits,spiritualgirlsand

preferredmanagementstyles,willhelptheCoordinatorunderstandthemotivatorseachvolunteerpossesses.Mostconflictisaresultofalackofunderstanding.Theconflictmayarise

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fromalackofunderstandingofthepersonalityofthevolunteer,alackofunderstandingofaprocessoralackofunderstandingofthe“why”behindthe“what.”

3. Honorthefeelingofeachvolunteer-Theirconcernsarerealtothem,whetheryoufeelthey

wererightornot.Seekingtotrulyunderstandtheirreasonsandperspectiveiskeytosuccessfulconflictresolution.Helpingeachotherunderstandperspectivebutreiteratingtheconcernsofanother,honorsthevolunteerandhelpsyouknowthatyouhaveanunderstandingoftheirfeelings.Startyouconversationwith,“Helpmeunderstand….”Andremembernottobesobusytryingtobeunderstoodthantounderstand.

4. RetracetheLoop-Asmentionedearliermostconflictcomesfromalackofunderstanding.

Determinehowthislackofunderstandingcametobe.5. Dealwiththeconflictinatimelymanner-Allowingconflicttofesteronlymakesitworse.

UsingtheBiblicalapproachfoundinMatthew18,meetwiththepersonwhohastheconflictwithyouassoonaspossible.

6. Donotlettheconflictstealyourjoyofserving-Nothingwillburnoutavolunteerquicker

thanunresolvedorcontinuedconflict.PrayforthearmorofGodtosurroundyouandtakecontrolofthesituation.Rememberyoucannotmakeothersdowhatyouwantthemtodo;youcanonlymakechoicestowhichothersrespondandcreateanenvironmentwhereotherscanmakechoicestoo.

BelowisasuccessfulmodelforresolvingconflictwithinaTroop.Thisprocesscanbeusedforconflictwithaparent,oradultvolunteer.Itisimportantthatthesestepstakeplaceintheorderrecommended.

HelpingAHGGirlsLiveaLifeofVirtue ItistheexpectationofAHG,Inc.thatgirlmembersnotonlysubscribeto,butstrivetoliveaccordingto thevaluesrepresented in theAHGOathandCreed, towhich theyagreedwhen theybecamea

Two or more adults are disagreeing on Troop policies and/or function and the issue is causing conflict .

The persons involved meet together, seperate from Troop

meeting time, to discuss concerns and realize the misunderstanding

can be resolved aimicably.

Aimicable resolve does not occur after private meeting between adults,Troop

Coordinator is consulted. Troop Coordinator is asked to review conflict with adults involved. During meeting, Troop Coordinator assists with conflict resolution, issue moves to aimicable resolve. (Skip this step if one adult

involved in conflict is Troop Coordinator.)

Troop Charter Representative is asked to review conflict along with Troop Coordinator and additional

parties involved. During this meeting, Troop Charter

Representative is to provide insight and counseling as well as record

keeping. Issue moves to aimicable resolve with all parties satisfied.

Charter Representative finds that no aimicable resolve can be established.

Charter Representative determines next path to be taken. Incident Report

should be filed with AHG Inc. Support Services Coordinator for record

keeping. Charter Representative is responsible for any decision to replace leadership or request for leader/adult

transfer to new troop. Change of Troop Coordinator process must be followed if

necessary.

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member.Withthisexpectation,itisalsounderstoodthat,justlikeadults,girlsfacetemptationandarenotwithoutsin.Becauseweallfallshortfromtimetotime,itisimportantthattheAHGTroopremain a place of grace and truth. Girls, especially during their adolescent years, are trying todeterminewhotheyareandhowtheirfaithandthecultureplayintothatidentity.AHGcanserveacritical role in guiding girls toward their identity in Christ. AHG is meant to be a ministry oftransformation—a ministry which surrounds girls with godly adults that will offer them soundBiblicaladvice,encouragement,graceandtruth.AHGshouldbeasafeplaceforgirlstonavigatetheconfusionthatistoday’smorallandscape.Whenagirl fallsshortof livingupto theAHGOathandCreed, it isnota time forher immediatedismissal fromtheTroop. It isa timewhenagirlneeds theChrist-centeredprogramofAHG,herparents, her church and the faith-filled adults of her Troop the most. When a girl engages inbehaviorwhichcontradictstheOathorCreed,itisimportantthatsheunderstandshererrorandisgiven an opportunity to change. These behaviors might include, but are not limited to: gossip,bullying,stealing,sexualactivityoutsidethecontextofmarriage(opposite-sexorsame-sex*),illegaluseofdrugsoralcohol,etc.WhenTroopLeadershipbecomesawarethatagirlisengaginginsuchbehavior,thereareanumberofstepsthatmustprecededismissalfromtheprogram.

1. Dependingonthelevelofseverityofthebehavior,theparentsofthegirlshouldbenotifiedandincludedintheprocess.IftheCharterOrganizationhaspoliciesregardingthebehaviorsbeing addressed, please refer to the Charter Organization for input, if agreeable to theparent. With parent approval, the trusted Unit Leader and/or Troop Shepherd plus oneotheradult(maintainingtwo-deep-leadership)shoulddiscusstheirconcernswiththegirlinalovingmanner.“Hereiswhyweareconcerned.HereiswhythisbehaviorcontradictstheOath/Creed.” Share the Scriptural references regarding these behaviors. Girls should begivenanopportunitytoshowremorse,repentanddetermineaplanforchangedbehavior.Accountability should be established in a manner which preserves confidentiality andpromotesyouthsafetyasdescribedinAHG’sKEYStoChildSafetyTraining.

2. Ifthegirlmemberdoesnotshowremorse,doesnotagreetoaplanofaction,orrepeatsthebehavior of concern, Troop Leadership should meet with the girl’s parents/guardians assoonaspossible,nomatterhowsmalltheinfraction.TroopLeadershipshouldexplaininalovingmannerwhythebehaviorisofconcern;whyitcontradictstheAHGOath/Creed;andwhatstepshavebeentakentoassistthegirlinaddressingtheissue.Followingthismeeting,girlsshouldbegivenanotheropportunitytoshowremorse,repentanddetermineaplanforchanged behavior. Accountability should be established in a manner which preservesconfidentiality and promotes youth safety as described in AHG’s KEYS to Child SafetyTraining.

3. If the girl member denies the behavior while the evidence is overwhelming, Troop

Leadership must stand for truth and challenge the girl member to be truthful. TroopLeadership should explain that grace is available to all, butwhere truth cannot be found,gracewillnotbeapplied. If thegirlmemberrefuses tobe truthful, thenTroopLeadershipshould meet with her parents/guardians to explain the evidence, to describe theconsequences that are available dependent upon the girl member’swillingness/unwillingnesstobetruthful,andtorequestthattheparents/guardianscounseltheirgirlmember.TroopLeadershipshouldoffertheparents/guardianandthegirlmember24to48hourstorespondtotheevidenceandthepossibleconsequences.

4. If the girlmember continues to not accept responsibility for the behavior, does not showremorse, does not agree to a plan of action, or repeats the behavior of concern, Troop

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Leadership should again meet with the girl and her parents/guardians. At this meeting,discussionsshouldbehadaroundengagingapastor,priestorotherchurchleaderwithinthegirl’s preferred denomination. Outsideministries that specialize in the issue at handmayalsobeengagedatthistime.Theobjectofthismeetingistoagainworkonaplanofactioninorder to assist the girl in understanding her behavior, its consequences and work toovercome it. If the parents and girl understand the concern around the behavior and arewilling to implement a plan for change, then the girl should be allowed to remain in theTroop.TheTroopVolunteers arenot expected toprovide counsel,which is the jobof theparents,butrathershowsupportandacknowledgementoftheworthofthegirl.

5. Iftheaboveavenueshaveallbeenexhaustedandthegirlcontinuesherbehavior,refusestorecognize thebehaviorascontradictory to theOath/Creed,and/orposesa threat toothergirls in the Troop, shemay be asked to terminate hermembership in AmericanHeritageGirls.ThegoalforeveryTroopshouldbetokeepthegirlintheTroop.ThedecisiontoaskagirltoleaveaTroopshouldbeonecoveredinprayeranddiscernmentandinwhichcounseloftheCharterRepandtheMemberServicesCoachissought.

*Scriptureaddressestheissuesofsin:homosexuality,adultery,fornication,lust,pornography,lying,stealing,etc.SiniscontrarytoGod’sdesignandpurposes(Romans1:1,1Corinthians6:1,1Timothy1,andLeviticus18).WhileAHGiswellawarethattheculturemaypromotevarioussinsasnaturalandpeopleare“bornthatway,”AHGdeferstothetruthofScripturethatstatesthatthesebehaviorsare “sin” and an “abomination.” AHG Leaders should communicate that God’s grace extends toevery form of sin when there is confession, repentance, and dependence on Jesus Christ (1Corinthians 6:9-11). As girls are maturing, there will be natural questions about same-genderattractionandthedevelopmentofhealthyrelationships.Parentsshouldalsoengagethesematterswithgrace,truth,courageandunderstanding.ItisvitalfortheprotectionofthegirlsandLeaders,that“two-deepleadership”ismaintainedatalltimes.Itisalsoimportantthegirl/Leadersratiosbemaintained.SuggestionPolicyYoursuggestionsshouldbehand-writtenortypedwiththesituationdescribed,theproblemandyourideaforasolution.SuggestionsaretobesubmittedtoyoursquadorUnitLeaderbymailoremail.Allcomplaintsaretobesignedandaccompaniedbysuggestedsolutions.Thinkingthroughtheproblemandcomingupwithapossiblesolutionallowscriticismtobeconstructive.Also,ifyou’reunabletofindasolution,theprocessmayleadyoutotherealizationthattheTroopishandlingthesituationinthebestwaypossible--theremaynotbeabetterwaytodoit.TheTroopBoardwillconsideryoursuggestionandimplementthechangesifdeemedbeneficialtotheentireprogram.